MIX IT UP Q: We’re creating our wedding entirely ourselves, from hiring tents and teepees, to portable loos and mobile bar hire. What do we need to consider when providing beverages for our guests? Scott Wright, marketing manager of Mix & Twist (www.mixandtwist. co.uk) says: Creating a memorable and exciting experience is the key to planning the perfect event with a mobile bar. Imagine bespoke cocktails served by professional bartenders in a stylish setup that complements your event’s theme, whether it’s an intimate gathering or a large-scale celebration, a mobile bar is the key to unlocking a truly unforgettable experience. Here are some top tips for planning the perfect event with the help of a mobile bar... Understanding your audience: Before you start planning the logistics, think about your guests, are they craft cocktail enthusiasts, or do they prefer classic beverages with a modern twist? Understanding your audience is essential for tailoring the drinks menu and the bar’s theme. Create a drinks menu that speaks to your guests’ preferences. Signature cocktails inspired by the event’s theme can be a real conversation starter. For example, a tropical-themed party might feature rum-based cocktails, while a corporate event could showcase sophisticated gin and tonic variations. Location, location, location: Where you place your mobile bar can make or break the event’s flow. The bar should be accessible but not obstructive, ensuring guests can mingle and enjoy themselves without crowding. Scout your location early and identify the best spot for the bar. Consider areas with good lighting and accessibility while keeping in mind how the bar’s setup will enhance, not detract from, the atmosphere. For outdoor events, ensure the bar is weatherproof and strategically placed for convenience. A personal touch: One of the biggest draws of a mobile bar is the opportunity to customise it to reflect your event’s personality. From branded glassware to signature cocktails, personalisation can elevate the guest experience. Think about adding unique touches that align with your theme. Branded cups, napkins, or even cocktail names that reference inside jokes or milestones can make your event truly one-of-a-kind. The bar itself can also be styled to match your aesthetic, whether that’s sleek and modern or vintage chic. BE INSPIRED Q: Our chosen wedding venue is a blank canvas, which is great, but also overwhelming when it comes to decorating it for the wedding day. What 2025 venue styling trends can we be inspired by? Anjali Ghosalkar, wedding planner and stylist at Let Us Do It Ltd (www.letusdoit.co.uk) says: Wedding venue styling is evolving with 2025 as multireligious, multicultural wedding ceremonies the central theme of this generation. Here are some other upcoming trends to be inspired by... Cultural fusion and personalised storytelling: Weddings in 2025 will embrace cultural fusion, blending influences from different heritages and personal experiences. Expect to see bespoke design elements that tell the couple’s unique story. Venue styling will become an expression of the couple’s journey, making each wedding truly one-of-a-kind. Bold and maximalist colour palettes: Bold jewel tones such as emerald, cobalt, and fuchsia or rich hues like deep reds, pinks, and purples will dominate, offering vibrant, personalised designs. Mixed hues in florals, table settings, and lighting will create visually striking spaces. Floral fantasy: Floral design will go big, with towering arches, suspended arrangements, and entire floral walls. Dried grasses, overgrown foliage, and edible blooms will add texture and sensory appeal to the venue. Sustainable luxury: Eco-conscious designs are key, with couples choosing sustainable venues and incorporating upcycled décor. Expect a focus on natural materials like reclaimed wood and stone, paired with some bright seasonal blooms. Statement ceilings and floors: Venues will make a statement with dramatic ceilings and floors. Cascading florals, suspended chandeliers, and custom floors will enhance the space, creating a more dynamic and immersive environment. Tech-elegance for a tech-generation: Technology is transforming venues with LED screens, projection mapping, and interactive elements. From digital backdrops to colour-changing lighting, tech will elevate the wedding experience. Read more from Anjali Ghosalkar over on page 57 now! Kari Bjorn Photography Unsplash 84
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=